Iran Says Cooperation Deal with UN Nuclear Watchdog Is Void

Iran announced on Monday that it has voided a cooperation agreement signed in September with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog. The agreement had allowed limited inspections at Iranian nuclear facilities, marking a cautious step toward restoring transparency after months of restricted access.

According to Iranian state media, the decision came after Western powers reinstated United Nations sanctions earlier in October, fulfilling Tehran’s earlier warning that it would withdraw from the deal if such measures returned. The sanctions, reimposed by the United

States and its European allies, targeted Iran’s oil exports and banking sector, further intensifying pressure on the country’s economy and nuclear policy.

Ali Larijani, the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, stated that “the agreement has been cancelled,” but also noted that if the IAEA presents a new proposal, “we will review it in our secretariat.” His statement suggests that while Tehran is closing the current framework, it has not ruled out the possibility of future cooperation under new conditions.

Reuters reported that this move deals a major setback to the IAEA’s efforts to reestablish oversight of Iran’s nuclear program. Since U.S. and Israeli air strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025, international inspectors have faced limited access to critical sites. The September agreement had raised hopes of renewed engagement, but its cancellation now risks deepening mistrust between Iran and the West.

Diplomatic observers warn that the decision will likely hinder transparency and complicate global efforts to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities. It could also increase tensions in the Middle East, where countries like Israel and Saudi Arabia have long expressed concerns about Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.

In summary, Iran’s cancellation of the IAEA cooperation deal underscores a renewed phase of confrontation between Tehran and Western governments. The move weakens international oversight mechanisms and heightens uncertainty surrounding Iran’s nuclear program, raising fears of a return to intensified regional and diplomatic tensions.

Source:

Reuters — “Iran says cooperation deal with UN nuclear watchdog is void”: October 20, 2025

 https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iran-says-cooperation-deal-with-un-nuclearwatchdog-is-void-2025-10-20/